If the Day One Executive Orders of the Biden-Harris Administration are any indication, we are about to experience a new era for America, one based in science, truth, and respect. This was made very clear during the Inauguration on Wednesday January 20, 2020. Importantly, President Biden understands that we must act quickly to confront the Read More
Nature of Maine Blog
The Natural Resources Council of Maine’s “Nature of Maine” blog gives you the inside scoop on some of the latest issues facing Maine’s environment. From environmental news to threats to opportunities, NRCM is on the frontlines of the latest goings-on—and we’re often leading the charge on efforts to protect Maine’s precious lands, air, waters, and wildlife. Read what NRCM staff members have to say and get the perspective of some of our members and supporters who have been guest contributors.
Perhaps you have an issue you’d like to write about. Maybe you’re an expert on a particular topic and are inspired to share your expertise. Maybe you’ve recently made a visit to a spectacular Maine nature preserve or other natural area and would like to write about it (captioned photos welcome!). For submission guidelines, email nrcm@nrcm.org.
A New Day for Climate Action in DC
Over the past four years, the clean air and water that fuels Maine’s economy has been threatened by the Trump Administration’s relentless rollbacks of more than 100 environmental safeguards and their refusal to hold corporate polluters accountable. Meanwhile, Mainers continue to experience the impacts of climate change first-hand, whether it be rising seas, extreme weather, Read More
Maine Outdoor Recreation Opportunities for All
As a lifelong Mainer and someone who loves photography, I have spent many hours traveling around the state to view and snap pictures of our gorgeous coastal beaches, stunning mountains, and rivers, lakes, and streams. While I don’t mind a little walk from a parking lot to take photos and enjoy the breathtaking views, I Read More
2020 Showed Us that There is No Time to Waste
For much of the past year, if someone asked how I was, I would give the same reflexive response: “Well enough…for 2020.” I heard this addendum frequently: from friends, coworkers, and family; an acknowledgment that the year forced us all to confront hardship, fear, loss, and the unsettling suspicion that the ground had shifted irreversibly Read More
Tank Farm Emissions Unseen Neighborhood Hazard
My quiet, tree-lined neighborhood in South Portland is called Pleasantdale. But the toxic stench from nearby petroleum tank farms frequently makes our neighborhood decidedly unpleasant. I can step out my door on a beautiful day – be it spring, summer, fall, or winter – and instead of fresh air, get a lungful of what smells Read More
Regional Transportation Funding Initiative Will Help Mainers Lead Healthier Lives
Maine’s recently released Climate Action Plan, Maine Won’t Wait, is an exciting step forward in the state’s efforts to strengthen our economy by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions 45% by 2030 and at least 80% by 2050. One of the most important parts of the Climate Action Plan focuses on solutions for reducing pollution from cars Read More
Rock Wren, Rock Star
It’s not every day you get to meet a rock star. They tend to perform on their own terms and make public appearances when and where they darn well please. Often, they live far from the crowds who admire them; when seen, they may or may not accommodate your request for a selfie. This past Read More
Building an Appreciation for the Natural World
“We have to get up WHEN?!” No matter the year or the group, every 15-year-old camper hearing that they’ll be waking up to watch the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain thinks the same thing: why do we have to get up so early? I first came to Maine in 2013 to spend a summer teaching horseback Read More
Critter Chatter — A Pet Peeve
When talking to Donald Cote at his Vassalboro Wildlife Center last month he mentioned one of his pet peeves: owners of exotic pets releasing them into the wild after they get bored with them or can no longer provide the care required. Buying, breeding, selling, and owning exotics are a big–and often illegal–business; purchases can Read More